3 Things to Know Before Buying a Desktop or All-In-One

If you're looking to buy a new Desktop or All-In-One, here are a few things to consider when looking at all the available options and picking out the perfect one for you

1. Desktops Have Great Advantages

When it comes to flexibility and updatability, nothing can beat a Desktop. Whether you're looking for a simple home computer to grow with your family, or a bleeding edge gaming rig, upgrading your desktop's components is a great way to stay ahead of the curve.

Another great advantage for Desktops is their value. Because they don't need to he super thin and light or don't come with big batteries like laptops, you can generally get more bang for your buck when it comes to buying a Desktop.

2. Choose Your Type

There are 3 general types of Desktops. The first is the Tradition Tower Desktop, which is built almost like a box. They are the most modular and upgradeable, and are a great choice for gamers or people who don't need their computer to be mobile,

The second type of Desktop is the All-In-One or AIO for short. AIO's combine the tower and monitor into one compact and clean package together. What they sacrifice in upgradeability when compared to Tradition Desktops, they make up for by usually taking up much less space, less clutter of cords, and sleek stylish design.

Finally, there is the Portable All-In-One. These AIO's are almost like really big tablets, but with the power of a full-sized computer. They will usually have large touch screens and a built-in battery so they can easily be moved around, without having to sacrifice screen size like you would with a regular laptop or tablet.

3. Know the Key Specs

The processor is the brain of the computer. If you want to use your Desktop for more demanding tasks like gaming or photo and video editing, investing in a faster processor is a good idea.

Memory holds everything you're actively working on, so if you're planning on doing a lot of multitasking on your Desktop, investing in one with more memory is a solid choice. Remember, because Desktops are highly modular and upgradeable, you will likely have the option to add more memory down the road if your needs change.

Hard Drive Space is the total storage capacity of your Desktop. If you mostly plan to use your Desktop for web browsing and streaming video, then you probably don't need to invest in a large amount of storage. On the other hand, if you plan on storing lots of pictures, videos, music, and documents, then you'll want to look at a model with a larger Hard Drive.

Finally, there is the Graphics Card or GPU. Most entry-level and mid-range Desktops come with integrated graphics that are built into the processor or CPU. While enough for displaying programs, websites, and playing videos, integrated graphics usually lack horsepower for more demanding tasks. If you want to use your Desktop for gaming or editing, choosing one with a Dedicated Graphics Card is an essential choice.